A Murder of Magpies (Sam Clair)

I enjoyed the book and the fun & witty protagonist. It seems promising for a beginning book series, but I also agree with some of the criticisms. I seldom have trouble keeping the characters straight in books, but did have difficulty remembering several of the peripheral ones, the protagonist's mother was a bit over-the-top to be reasonably plausible, and a failure to properly emphasize continuing visits with a neighbor had made the ending seem slightly contrived, but I had not found the pace so far off that I'd felt I'd had to slog my way through it. This author can write and demonstrates a good deal of promise--I'd definitely give a second book a try.

It would be very refreshing, however, if publishers would cease the practice of having their own authors supply largely suspect and unanimously gushing reviews for one another on every book jacket, and also cease using the unfailingly glowing reviews by certain other very suspect publications, as well as inaccurate book descriptions on jackets and on book websites too. One description here on the store had included something about this book being a "whirlwind tour" of London and Paris, which obviously had been provided by an individual who had not read this book. Anyone gullible enough to pay any attention to such suspect reviews and descriptions is almost bound to be gravely disappointed in some manner that will not favor an author. Those not influenced by inflated hype and inaccurate descriptions are certainly more apt to be open-minded or forgiving, at least, and are less likely to consider the authors responsible for things of that nature.

Fast paced, good characters and interesting twists along the way. Reminds me of Janet Evanovitch (spelling is not my forte) and Sue Grafton. A good, upbeat read. But British and that makes a difference to me.

Went through this book very quickly (maybe too quickly). Enjoyed the intelligent writing and wit. As for the plot, the book is a mystery involving the publishing and fashion industries. I enjoyed the overall plot, but found it got a bit convoluted with lots of characters and intricacies of money laundering that I wasn't always sure I was following. I prefer Alan Bradley's books, but would definitely give another Judith Flanders mystery a try if she chooses to write one.

A marvelously funny debut mystery with a heroine you want to travel with over the long haul.

But, what makes this truly special is the portrait of the publishing industry that, as one who has seen it upclose and personal, is all too real

Read this for the sheer enjoyment of it

But, if you are entering, or planning on entering, the field, heed the warning: "Be afraid... be very afraid"

The story progresses very slowly, almost too slowly, with only the occasional bit of action.
The book did get better, the second half was more interesting, with more depth of character and more action
Decent plot premise, but I can't recommended the book, it just wasn't that good

Intriguing look at the publishing industry combined with an escalating murder mystery. A mousy book editor takes up the challenge of amateur sleuthing when one of her authors and best friends disappears, and the authorities fail to give it sufficient attention. She doesn't set out to be the trouble magnet and catalyst for catastrophe she gradually becomes but between people assuming she knows more than she lets on and people assuming she knows less, she keeps things churning until the pieces begin falling into place. A bunch of oddball characters and a wry sense of humor make this an absolute joy to read!

This is a wonderful debut novel which introduces two characters that deserve more stories. The editor and policeman - while a novel paring for mystery sleuths - is a natural here. The character development and story line are excellent; the book is well written and engaging. Give us more!

Great British mystery. Editor at publishing firm provides fun and biting look at her world while searching for missing friend. She is helped by her mother, a senior partner at a prestigious London law firm. This unlikely duo solve the case while providing snarky commentary on the London scene.

Writer's Block was a bit disappointing. The storyline is good with lots of potential, but there was a lack of emotion from the pages, whether that be excitment, tension, fear, happiness, passion, etc. It just lacked life.That's just my opinion.